Cleaning Out My E-Mail Inboxes

Every now and then it’s worth spending the time to “unsubscribe” to many of the newsletters and promotional mailings that arrive in your inbox. I must have devoted more than an hour unsubscribing to an assortment of things the other day. Do I really need to hear about deals to Portland, Oregon from TripAdvisor when I have not had plans to go there for 3 or 4 years now?

What surprised me is how difficult some companies make it to opt out. A few require that you sign in before you’re able to get off the mailing list. That’s ridiculous. Some ask if you’re sure about your request to unsubscribe – maybe you’re having second thoughts. (No, I’m not.) Others add a personal message, saying they’re sorry to see you go. Not a bad touch.

The best ones are like the own below. One click and you’re done.

You have been opted out.

The email address [email protected] will not receive another email from this sender. No further action is required on your part.

If you opted out by mistake or wish to re-join this sender’s list, you may request an opt-in invitation email by clicking here.

The best part for me is when they say, “No further action is required on your part.” Hooray.